The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia is concerned with the confusion in the issuance of broadcast licences and the vague mandate of the Independent Broadcast Authority (IBA) that was established this year.
Following a Ministerial statement by the Minister of Information and Broadcasting Services (MIBS), Mwansa Kapeya in Parliament, it is clear that while the IBA is operational, its mandate is inexplicit or limited. Currently, applicants are not sure which institution to approach for licence applications.
We are appealing for the immediate appointment of the IBA board in order for it to take up the responsibility of issuance of licences.
While MISA Zambia supported the appointment of the IBA Director General without a board, the organization does not subscribe to encroachment by government on IBA’s mandate.
We urge the government to quickly address this issue and resolve the confusion that is affecting the independent operations of both the broadcast sector and the IBA by fully operationalizing the independent broadcast regulator including the reinstatement of the Appointments Committee in the IBA Act of 2010.
Further, the revocation of the nationwide coverage licences to Radio Phoenix and QFM is going against the objectives of the IBA which is to promote media pluralism and diversity. So far, government has not alluded to parts of the law that prohibit the nationwide coverage for private media.
The stance is equally against the consolidation of Zambia’s democracy and good governance which can only exist where free flow of information is guaranteed.
Nalumino Nalumino
Chairperson
6 November 2013
Gentle monsters in government let the nation hear you and know your deeds. You won’t hold on to you seats by stiffling news about you. Just work baba and the people shall keep you in office. Chine under hand methods will not work.
The initial national coverage licensing for TV was limited to two winners, including the Roman Catholic Church. I think that at an opportune time, then other appicants will win their licenses. It is wrong to condone cacophony in the air waves. Take time to build a good media landscape. What is the basis of compulsive quick licensing? It is better to approach this matter in stages.
nonsense ba Dr. Ni mweba pf cadre
Dr Makasa, have you already forgotten that Mr Sata promised liberation of airwaves when he was in opposition? Or do politicians’ promises not matter any more with you “doctors”?